How do I detect counterfeit Malaysian banknotes or money? What are the security features of Malaysian banknotes?

COINS SECURITY FEATURES

To help you determine whether your banknote is genuine, the main security features of the Malaysian banknotes (3rd series) are as follows:

WatermarkThe shaded watermark portrait of the First Yang di-Pertuan Agong, in the clear panel on the left hand side of the banknote, can be seen when the banknote is held up against the light. The watermark has a 3-dimensional look with different tones of dark and light, appearing soft and shady without sharp outlines. At the base of the watermark the number i.e. 50 for the RM50 denomination, is clearly visible.

Windowed Security ThreadThe windowed security thread is interwoven in the paper and it runs vertically down the reverse side of the banknote. When the banknote is held up against the light, the thread appears as a continuous dark line with repeated text printed on it. For example on a RM50 banknote, the words "BNM RM50" is typed repeatedly on the thread.

LEAD FeaturesFor denominations of RM50 and RM100, there is a holographic strip (seen as a shiny strip) on the right hand side of the banknote. There are three items printed on the holographic strip:

Repeated designs similar to the one printed on the right-hand side of the portrait of the First Yang di-Pertuan Agong

Image of the denomination numeral (e.g. RM50)

Image of the letters "BNM"

PEAK FeaturesThe PEAK features is located in the middle of the banknote. When the banknote is looked at from various angles, the denomination numeral can be seen in the center of the square. For example on a RM50 banknote, the number 50 is printed.

Perfect See-Through RegisterA hibiscus flower at the top and bottom of the banknote with exact images on both sides of the banknote.

Intaglio PrintThe portrait of the First Yang di-Pertuan Agong, denomination figures, designs and the words 'BANK NEGARA MALAYSIA' are printed with intaglio inks to give good overall tactility and gives a raised feel.

PaperMalaysian banknotes are made from high quality paper manufactured from cotton. The banknotes have a slightly rough touch and have a special crisp sound when crunched.

Portrait of Yang di-Pertuan AgongThe portrait of the First Yang di-Pertuan Agong, which is found on the right hand side of the banknote, is an anti-counterfeiting feature which is difficult to reproduce.

COINS SECURITY FEATURES

The security features of the coins are the relief of the design, milled edges, lettering and characters on both sides.

If you drop the coin onto a hard surface, you will hear a sharp ringing tone.

You can also check the colour of the coin. All coins should have an even colour.